Why Your Degree Classification Matters
A First-Class Honours (often referred to as a "First" or "1st") usually signifies a score of 70% or higher in the UK system. It places you in the top tier of graduates. Employers value this because it signals:
- Consistency:You didn't just pass; you excelled over a long period.
- Intellect: You can handle complex information.
- Dedication:You consistently exceed minimum requirements.
Even if you have some work experience, a First-Class degree remains a powerful "trust signal" on your CV, proving you have the foundational discipline to succeed.
Where to Place It on Your CV
Placement is everything. You want it to be visible, but not desperate.
1. The Education Section (The Standard Spot)
This is where recruiters expect to see it. List your university, the degree title, dates attended, and then the classification clearly.
- Fresh Graduates: Place this section near the top, just under your Personal Profile.
- Experienced Pros: Place this after your Work Experience section.
2. The Personal Profile (The "Hook")
If you are fresh out of university, mention it in your opening summary.
- Example:"A highly motivated Marketing graduate with First-Class Honours and a passion for digital analytics..."
3. The Cover Letter (The Narrative)
Use your cover letter to explain how you got the First. Did you balance it with a part-time job? Did you win a specific award? This adds context to the grade.
How to Write First-Class Honours on Your CV: A Step-by-Step Guide
Having the achievement is one thing; knowing how to put it on paper without looking arrogant or messy is another. Let’s cut to the chase. Here is exactly how to write it up properly, so it looks sharp and instantly signals value to recruiters.
Step 1: Use Correct Formatting (Clarity is King)
Recruiters don't have time to decode your CV. Stick to a consistent, professional style. Write "First Class Honours" (or "1st Class Honours") clearly after your degree title.
- Good: BA (Hons) History, First Class Honours
- Bad: BA History (1st Hons / Top Grade)
Keep it formal but simple. Use the same font as the rest of your document. Dates should follow immediately (e.g., 2020–2023) so it is easy to scan. Avoid over-complicating it with random abbreviations like "1st Hons." Recruiters aren’t here for a puzzle; they want facts. If your university uses a unique format, check their official transcripts, but the standard layout works 99% of the time. Job done.
Step 2: Provide Context Where Relevant
Sometimes the grade alone doesn't tell the full story. If your First-Class Honours came with extras—like a standout dissertation or a particularly tough course load—mention it.
- Example:"BEng Mechanical Engineering, First Class Honours, with a dissertation on renewable energy systems."
It’s not mandatory, but a bit of context shows off your focus and skills, especially if they match the job. However, be selective. Don't chuck in every detail. Nobody cares about that random seminar on medieval pottery unless you are applying to a museum. Pick one or two gems that tie into the role, like a project where you scored 90% or a module that is bang-on for the gig. Less is more here; keep it tight and impactful.
Step 3: Highlight Related Achievements
Did your honours come with perks? Maybe you won an award, led a research project, or aced a specific module. Add it in!
- Example:"BA English Literature, First Class Honours, awarded Best Dissertation Prize."
This isn't bragging; it’s evidence. It proves you didn't just scrape a First; you dominated the course. Keep it short, though—one or two extras max, or it will look like you are padding the CV with fluff.
Step 4: Tailor to the Job Role
Your CV isn’t set in stone. It should change for every application. If the job cares about data analysis and your Statistics degree got First-Class Honours, play that up. Drop the irrelevant details and focus on what clicks with the employer.
Check the job ad for keywords like "problem-solving" or "innovation," then tweak your honours entry to echo them.
- Example for a Data Role:"BSc Mathematics, First Class Honours, with advanced coursework in statistical modelling."
It’s not rewriting history; it’s framing your brilliance to fit the role perfectly. If you are unsure how to tailor your academic history for a specific industry, our expert cv writer can help you identify the most "sellable" parts of your degree.
Why Choose My Perfect Writing for Your CV?
Your CV is your ticket to the interview room. Here is how My Perfect Writing specialized services ensure it gets noticed.
Free CV Review Service
Unsure if your current CV cuts? Get a detailed CV review to ensure 100% originality and alignment with industry standards. Our expert cv writer provides feedback to ensure your CV stands out to recruiters, highlighting exactly where you can improve.
Professional CV Writing by Experts
You need more than just a spellcheck. Receive step-by-step guidance from qualified cv writing service professionals in the UK who will craft a precise, job-winning CV that aligns with your career goals and industry expectations. We know exactly how to frame academic achievements to appeal to corporate employers.
Guaranteed CV Success
Our cv preparation services ensure your CV gets noticed. We offer a satisfaction guarantee with every CV we create, giving you the confidence to take on your next job application. We don't stop until you are happy with the draft.
Pay 25% Upfront for CV Writing Services
We have made professional help accessible. Get professional cv editing service help in the UK at an affordable price. Pay a small 25% upfront fee for us to start working on your CV, and the balance only after you approve the final version, with absolutely no hidden charges.
Confidential CV Writing Support
Your career history is personal. Your privacy is our priority. All CV work is handled securely and confidentially, ensuring your personal information remains protected and is never shared with third parties.
24/7 CV Writing Help UK
Missed a deadline? Need help with your CV urgently? Our online cv writing services are available anytime, ensuring a quick turnaround for last-minute career applications.
Conclusion
Earning a First-Class Honours degree is a massive achievement, but it won't speak for itself. You must translate that academic success into professional potential. By placing it correctly, formatting it clearly, and adding context through relevant modules or awards, you turn a line on a page into a compelling reason to hire you.
However, if you are struggling to find the right words or worried your layout looks cluttered, don't risk your application. My Perfect Writing offers the expertise you need. With our Free CV Review and Pay 25% Upfront model, you can get professional eyes on your CV risk-free.
Let’s turn that degree into a job offer.
Get Expert CV Help Now – Pay Just 25% Upfront!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I list my modules?
Only if they are relevant to the job. If you are applying for a finance role, listing "Advanced Corporate Finance" helps. Listing "History of Economic Thought" might waste space. Keep it targeted.
How do I list a First-Class degree from a non-UK university?
Use an equivalent. For example, if you studied in the US, you might write: "GPA 3.8/4.0 (Equivalent to UK First-Class Honours)." Clarity prevents confusion for the recruiter.
Can I lie about my grade?
Absolutely not. Most employers run background checks on education. Lying about a First is the fastest way to get fired (or blacklisted) later. Be honest.
What if I missed a First by 1%?
Be proud of your 2:1 (Upper Second Class). It is still a great achievement! Do not round up. Instead, highlight your strengths in specific modules where you did achieve a First (e.g., "Graduated with 2:1, achieving First-Class grades in Dissertation and Research Methods").
How can a CV writing service help me?
Services like My Perfect Writing match you with an expert cv writer who knows the current trends. We can help you identify which parts of your degree are most "sellable" to employers and format them in a way that passes Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Meet Our Professional Essay Writers
Empowering Your Academic Writing Journey with Authority, Expertise, and Experience
Dr. Emma Wilson
PhD in Literature
Prof. James Chen
MSc in Computer Science
Dr. Sarah Ahmed
PhD in Law & Ethics
Ready to Work With Our Expert Writers?
